Can I Take My Dog on Emirates Flight? Emirates Pet Policy 2025 Explained

Traveling with pets has become more common in recent years as families consider their dogs and cats part of the family unit. But for international flights, rules vary from airline to airline. Among the most frequently asked questions is: “Can I take my dog on Emirates flight?”

The quick answer is: Yes, Emirates does allow dogs on flights, but only under specific conditions. Unlike some airlines that permit small dogs in the passenger cabin, Emirates generally requires pets to travel via Emirates SkyCargo. The only exceptions are certified service dogs and falcons, which may be permitted in the cabin under certain circumstances.

This guide explores everything pet parents need to know: Emirates’ pet travel policies, costs, safety requirements, booking process, preparation steps, alternatives, pros and cons, FAQs, and expert advice. By the end, you’ll have a full picture of whether Emirates is the right airline for your dog’s next journey.

Emirates Pet Travel Policy Overview

Emirates is one of the world’s largest international airlines, flying to over 150 destinations. While their passenger services are known for luxury, their rules around pet travel are conservative compared to some European carriers.

Emirates and Pets: Dogs, Cats, and Falcons

Dogs and Cats: Accepted, but must travel in the cargo hold unless they are certified service animals.
Falcons: Emirates is unique in allowing falcons in the cabin on flights within the UAE and to certain destinations in the Middle East.
Other Pets: Birds (other than falcons), rabbits, and exotic animals may not be accepted. Always confirm directly with Emirates.

Cabin vs Cargo: What’s Allowed

Cabin: Only service dogs and falcons on certain routes.
Cargo (SkyCargo): All other dogs must travel in Emirates’ dedicated animal transport service.

Age and Vaccination Rules

Dogs must be minimum 4 months old.
Valid rabies vaccination is mandatory.
Additional vaccines may be required depending on the destination (distemper, parvovirus, kennel cough).

Can I Take My Dog in the Cabin on Emirates?

Pet owners often ask if small dogs can travel under the seat, as is possible on airlines like Lufthansa, KLM, or Air France. On Emirates, however, the answer is different.

Cabin Policy for Dogs

Regular dogs are not allowed in the passenger cabin.
Only service dogs assisting passengers with disabilities are allowed to sit with their owners free of charge.
Falcons may be permitted in cabins on select Middle Eastern routes.

Why Dogs Are Not Allowed in Cabin

Emirates enforces this rule due to:

Passenger comfort: Allergies or fear of dogs among travelers.
Flight safety: Preventing distractions or movement during long-haul flights.
Animal stress: Cabins can be crowded and overwhelming for pets.

Options for Small Dogs

Even tiny breeds like Chihuahuas or Pomeranians cannot sit in the cabin. They must fly as cargo, in line with IATA animal transport standards.

Emirates Pet Cargo Policy (SkyCargo)

Since pets cannot travel in the cabin, Emirates SkyCargo handles live animal transport. It is one of the most advanced systems in the aviation industry.

How Emirates SkyCargo Works

Pets travel in a pressurized, temperature-controlled hold.
The environment mirrors the passenger cabin in air quality and pressure.
Staff are trained in handling animals according to IATA Live Animal Regulations.

Crate Requirements

Dogs must travel in IATA-approved crates.
The crate must allow the pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.
Ventilation must be provided on at least three sides.
Bowls for food and water must be securely attached inside.

Temperature and Handling

In hot climates like Dubai, Emirates ensures pets are transferred quickly between terminals and aircraft using climate-controlled vehicles. Staff are trained to reduce stress and handle pets with care.

Documentation for Cargo Travel

Health certificate from a licensed veterinarian.
Rabies vaccination record (and other vaccines if required).
Import/export permits for destination countries.
Microchip records, mandatory in many regions.

Emirates Service and Guide Dogs Policy

While regular dogs must travel as cargo, service dogs are permitted in the passenger cabin.

Which Dogs Qualify

Guide dogs for the visually impaired.
Hearing dogs for the hearing-impaired.
Service dogs assisting with mobility or medical alerts.

Booking and Paperwork

Inform Emirates at least 48 hours before departure.
Provide official documents proving service dog status.
Submit up-to-date vaccination and health records.

Destination Exceptions

Certain countries—including the UK, EU, and Australia—have strict animal import laws. Even service dogs may be required to enter via cargo or quarantine. Always check both Emirates and destination government websites before travel.

Cost of Taking a Dog on Emirates Flights

How Fees Are Calculated

Emirates charges based on:

Total weight of dog + crate.
Crate dimensions (length × width × height).
Route and destination (short-haul vs. long-haul).

Example Pricing

Small dog (under 32kg with crate): $500–$800.
Large dog (50kg+ with crate): $1,000–$2,000+.
Prices vary by route and handling fees at the origin/destination airports.

Extra Expenses

Veterinary visits for health checks and vaccines.
Government permits and customs clearance fees.
Quarantine costs if required by the destination country.

Health and Safety Requirements

Vaccinations and Health Certificates

Rabies vaccine is non-negotiable.
Many countries also require vaccines for distemper, hepatitis, and leptospirosis.
Health certificates must usually be issued within 10 days of departure.

For further information about health and safety “click here“,

Breed Restrictions

Emirates, like other airlines, does not accept snub-nosed breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus due to breathing risks. Aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls or Rottweilers may also face restrictions.

Pre-Flight Vet Check

Confirm overall health and fitness to fly.
Verify microchip and identification.
Discuss stress reduction strategies with your vet.

Climate Precautions

Avoid booking during peak summer or extreme winter. While Emirates takes precautions, minimizing risks ensures your dog’s comfort.

Step-by-Step Process for Booking Pet Travel on Emirates

1. Contact Emirates in Advance

Notify the airline early with pet details (breed, weight, crate size).

2. Prepare Documentation

Collect all necessary documents: health certificate, vaccination proof, permits, and microchip info.

3. Confirm Booking

Emirates reviews paperwork and confirms cargo booking. Fees must be paid in advance.

4. Check-In Procedure

Arrive early at the cargo terminal.
Crates are inspected for IATA compliance.
Identification labels and “Live Animal” stickers are attached.

for more information visit Pet Travel Checklist.

5. During the Flight

Pets travel in a climate-controlled hold. Staff oversee safe loading and unloading.

6. Collection at Destination

Retrieve your dog from the cargo terminal or customs area. Depending on destination, a vet or quarantine check may be required before release.

Preparing Your Dog for an Emirates Flight

Crate Training

Introduce your dog to the crate weeks before departure. Gradually increase time spent inside and make it feel like a safe, cozy space.

Feeding and Hydration

Feed lightly 4–6 hours before departure. Provide water in bowls secured to the crate. Frozen water bottles are a good trick to avoid spills.

Exercise Before Travel

Take your dog for a long walk or play session before heading to the airport. This reduces stress and helps them stay calm during the flight.

Comfort Items

Place a blanket with your scent or a safe chew toy in the crate. Avoid sedatives unless prescribed by a veterinarian.

Alternatives to Flying with Your Dog on Emirates

Airlines Allowing Cabin Pets

If cabin travel is important, airlines like Lufthansa, Air France, KLM, and Turkish Airlines may be better options for small dogs.

Pet Relocation Companies

Professional pet relocation services handle logistics, paperwork, and customs, making the process less stressful for owners.

Private Jet Charters

For ultimate comfort (and budget flexibility), private charters allow pets to fly in the cabin with their owners.

Pros and Cons of Taking Your Dog on Emirates Flight

Advantages

Wide international network.
Professional SkyCargo facilities.
Trained staff following IATA guidelines.
Cabin access for service dogs.

Disadvantages

No cabin access for regular pets.
Higher costs than some alternatives.
Breed restrictions limit options.
Complicated paperwork.

FAQs: Can I Take My Dog on Emirates Flight?

Does Emirates allow dogs in the cabin?

No, only service dogs and falcons are permitted.

What documents are required?

Health certificate, vaccination proof, import/export permits, and microchip details.

How much does it cost?

Anywhere from $500 to $2,000+, depending on weight, crate, and route.

Are emotional support animals allowed?

No, only certified service dogs are accepted.

Expert Tips for Flying with Pets on Emirates

Book your dog’s space early and confirm availability.
Double-check the import rules of your destination country.
Clearly label crates with pet and owner information.
Choose flights in cooler months or times of day.
Keep digital and paper copies of all documents.
Train your dog to be comfortable in the crate well before the flight.

Conclusion

So, can you take your dog on Emirates flight? Yes, but only under specific conditions. Regular dogs cannot travel in the cabin—only certified service dogs are allowed. All other dogs must travel through Emirates SkyCargo, where they are handled under strict safety and welfare standards.

Although the process involves paperwork, preparation, and significant costs, Emirates remains a reliable option for international pet transport. For long-haul journeys or relocations, Emirates’ professional handling and global reach make it a trusted choice.

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